How to Apply FAQs

How to Apply

1) Which districts are eligible?

The START facility is open to applicants from the 33 districts under the Development Initiative for Northern Uganda (DINU) programme. These include: Abim, Amudat, Kaabong, Kotido, Moroto, Nakapiripirit, Napak, Agago, Amuru, Kitgum, Lamwo, Nwoya, Omoro, Pader, Alebtong, Amolatar, Apac, Dokolo, Kole, Lira, Otuke, Oyam, Amuria, Katakwi, Adjumani, Arua, Koboko, Maracha, Moyo, Nebbi, Yumbe and Zombo.

 

2) Do new districts recently curved out of the listed 33 districts qualify? For example, the new district Kapelebyong, curved out of Amuria, are projects from Kapelebyong eligible?

Yes, the geographic coverage for START is aligned with the geographic coverage of DINU and comprises 33 districts in Northern Uganda, this geographical area will be maintained. Therefore, projects from the new districts as a result of split of DINU districts qualify.

3) Are individuals eligible?

START facility targets the following project developers: a company registered in Uganda under the Companies Act, a cooperative formed under the Cooperative Societies Act, trade association or similar business representative organization legally established in Uganda. Provided it can contribute, either from its own resources or in combination with other shareholders, equity equal to at least 25% of the total cost of the project.

4) Can women groups that are currently engaged in primary production apply and participate in value addition like men?

Yes, women with projects that meet the eligibility criteria will be supported. Priority will be given to projects that contribute to economic empowerment of women and youth as well as to projects that aim at reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities.

5) Are Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) eligible to apply?

 START facility targets the following project developers: a company registered in Uganda under the Companies Act, a cooperative formed under the Cooperative Societies Act, trade association or similar business representative organization legally established in Uganda. Provided it can contribute, either from its own resources or in combination with other shareholders, equity equal to at least 25% of the total cost of the project.

6) Do foreign investors also qualify for START facility support?

Yes, as long as their companies meet the eligibility criteria under START facility.

7) Do project Startups (Greenfield) qualify for START Services?

YES, startup projects (Greenfield) qualify as long as the developer demonstrates the 25% contribution and project qualifies per START facility’s Eligibility criteria.